4 fatalities

Night Training Crash Off Alameda NAS Kills Four (08162)

Alameda NAS (Oakland), United States of AmericaLanding (descent or approach)

On October 24, 1943, a Consolidated PBY Catalina (registration 08162) operated by United States Navy - USN was involved in an aviation accident near Alameda NAS (Oakland), United States of America during landing or approach. 4 people were killed. Investigators recorded the probable cause as: Loss of control while avoiding collision with an aircraft carrier during night landing practice. This summary draws on records from the Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A); 8 related events involving the same aircraft type or operator are linked below.

Sourcesthe Bureau of Aircraft Accidents Archives (B3A)Source recordUpdated 2026-08-25Data APIEditorial standards

A military aircraft crashed into San Francisco Bay during night landing practice near Alameda Naval Air Station, resulting in the deaths of all four crew members.

What happened

The incident occurred during a night landing practice session conducted over San Francisco Bay, specifically in the waters off Alameda NAS. The aircraft was engaged in training maneuvers when it encountered another vessel or aircraft in the immediate vicinity. To avoid a collision with an aircraft carrier, the crew executed evasive actions that led to a loss of control. The aircraft subsequently crashed into the water.

Findings

The accident resulted in fatal consequences for everyone on board. Four crew members were killed in the crash. The primary factor leading to the loss of the aircraft was the loss of control during the maneuver intended to avoid a mid-air or surface collision with the carrier.

Probable cause

Loss of control while avoiding collision with an aircraft carrier during night landing practice.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 24 Oct 1943 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident near Alameda NAS (Oakland), United States of America?

A military aircraft crashed into San Francisco Bay during night landing practice near Alameda Naval Air Station, resulting in the deaths of all four crew members.

Were there any fatalities in the 24 Oct 1943 Consolidated PBY Catalina accident?

The accident was fatal, resulting in 4 fatalities.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 24 Oct 1943 involved a Consolidated PBY Catalina, registration 08162, operated by United States Navy - USN, at Alameda NAS (Oakland), United States of America.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

Loss of control while avoiding collision with an aircraft carrier during night landing practice.